Network Designer

Job Name

Network Designer. Also known as a Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst

Brief description

They specialise in the provision of Project Management, Design, Integration and Implementation of ICT technology projects for medium to large organisation in both the public and private sectors. These include analysing, designing, testing, and evaluating network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), Internet, intranet, and other data communications systems. Perform network modelling, analysis, and planning. Research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software. Include telecommunications specialists who deal with the interfacing of computer and communications equipment. May supervise computer programmers.(Occupation Information Network, 2006)

The above is an example of a diagram that a Network Designer may be asked to produce.

(Cisco Systems, Inc., 2006)

Duties & Responsibilities of this Role

Network Designers are tasked with the following duties and responsibilties;

Adapt and modify existing software to meet specific needs.
Assist users to diagnose and solve data communication problems.
Consult customers, visit workplaces or conduct surveys to determine present and future user needs.
Design and implement systems, network configurations, and network architecture, including hardware
and software technology, site locations, and integration of technologies.
Develop and write procedures for installation, use, and troubleshooting of communications hardware
and software.
Identify areas of operation that need upgraded equipment such as modems, fibre optic cables, and
telephone wires.
Maintain needed files by adding and deleting files on the network server and backing up files to
guarantee their safety in the event of problems with the network.
Maintain the peripherals, such as printers, that are connected to the network.
Monitor system performance and provide security measures, troubleshooting and maintenance as
needed.
Read technical manuals and brochures to determine which equipment meets establishment
requirements.
Set up user accounts, regulating and monitoring file access to ensure confidentiality and proper
use.
Test and evaluate hardware and software to determine efficiency, reliability, and compatibility
with existing system, and make purchase recommendations.
Train users in use of equipment.
Visit vendors, attend conferences or training and study technical journals to keep up with changes
in technology.
Work with other engineers, systems analysts, programmers, technicians, scientists and top-level
managers in the design, testing and evaluation of systems.
Adjust computer operation system.
Check hardware or software to determine reliability.
Communicate technical information.
Configure computers in industrial or manufacturing setting.
Consult with customers concerning needs.
Establish and maintain relationships with team members.
Evaluate computer system user requests or requirements.
Follow data security procedures.
Follow data storage procedures.
Implement computer system changes.
Maintain client-server database.
Maintain or repair computers or related equipment.
Monitor computer operation.
Monitor use of computer data files to safeguard information.
Operate computer networks.
Perform minor repairs to hardware, software, or peripheral equipment.
Prepare instruction manuals.
Prepare technical reports or related documentation.
Program computers using existing software.
Program mainframe computer.
Provide technical computer training.
Provide technical support to computer users.
Recommend purchase or repair of furnishings or equipment.
Recommend software or hardware purchases.
Resolve symbolic formulations in data processing applications.
Select business applications for computers.
Test computer programs or systems.
Test data communications hardware or software.
Train workers in use of computer and related equipment.
Train workers in use of equipment.
Understand computer equipment operating manuals.
Use computer application flow charts.
Use computer networking technology.
Use computers to enter, access or retrieve data.
Use knowledge of mainframe computers.
Use project management techniques.
Use spreadsheet software.
Use word processing or desktop publishing software.
Work as a team member.
Write computer software, programs, or code (Occupation Information Network, 2006)

Job requirements

Network Designers must be competent with a variety of Tools and Technology;

Tools:

Desktop computers - Desktop computers.
Integrated services digital network ISDN testers - Integrated services digital network ISDN analysers
Interferometers - Optical spectrum analysers.
Network analysers - Asynchronous transfer mode ATM analysers, Bit error rate BER testers, Cable analysers, Cable qualification testers, Link analysers.
Power meters - Fibre optic power meters, Power meters. (Occupation Information Network, 2006)

Technology:

Administration software - Asset management software, Cisco Systems CiscoWorks, Citrix MetaFrame, Element management software, Lucent VitalSuite.
Configuration management software - Application management software, Automated installation software, Configuration management software, Patch and upgrade management software, Software distribution software.
Network monitoring software - Compaq Insight Manager, Discrete event simulation software, Ethereal, Ipswitch What's Up Gold, Multi-router traffic grapher MRTG software.
Network security or virtual private network VPN management software - Intrusion prevention system IPS software, Network and system vulnerability assessment software, Network intrusion detection software, Risk assessment software, Security incident management software.
Transaction security and virus protection software - CA eTrust, Encryption software, McAfee VirusScan, Packet filter software, Penetration testing software. (Occupation Information Network, 2006)

In conjunction with this potential employers generally require a Bachelor's Degree and in some cases up to five years of experience in relevant commercial positions.

Salary

$700/day
$100,000 - $120,000 (Seek.com.au - Skills Quest Network Designer, 2007)
$75,000 - $80,000 (Seek.com.au - Lloyd Executive Senior Network Designer, 2007)

Industry/Organisation

They specialise in the provision of Project Management, Design, Integration and Implementation of ICT technology projects for medium to large organisation in both the public and private sectors.